Minister names arbitrators for AC negotiations

Air Canada reports that it has been advised by Labour minister, Lisa Raitt that she has appointed arbitrators in accordance with Bill C-33, Protecting Air Service Act. Raitt has named Douglas Stanley to act as arbitrator between Air Canada and the Air Canada Pilots Association (ACPA), which represents the airline’s 3,000 pilots. Michel Picher has been appointed by Raitt to act as arbitrator between Air Canada and the IAMAW, which represents the carrier’s 8,600 mechanics, baggage handlers and cargo agents. Both appointments take effect immediately. On April 19, 2012, Air Canada announced it would enter into a 10-day negotiation period with ACPA to begin following the appointment of an arbitrator by the labour minister. On April 27, 2012, Air Canada announced a similar agreement for a 10-day negotiation period with the IAMAW. Air Canada, ACPA, and the IAMAW will have no further comments during the course of these negotiations.